Mechanical Design Engineer

Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer
Job Description
This role focuses on designing and detailing sheet metal components and related mechanical systems from concept through series production, ensuring manufacturability, serviceability, and cost-effectiveness. You will create accurate 3D models and manufacturing drawings in SolidWorks, collaborate closely with production and vendors, and ensure all designs meet customer, system, and engineering requirements.
Responsibilities

• Design and detail sheet metal components and mechanical assemblies from initial concept through series production, ensuring manufacturability, serviceability, and cost efficiency.
• Modify and adapt existing components and designs to meet specific customer applications and unique project requirements.
• Generate accurate, detailed 3D models and manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks, following internal design guidelines and industry GD&T standards.
• Collaborate closely with production teams, vendors, and other related departments to deliver high-quality products on time and within budget.
• Consult with engineers and internal stakeholders regarding materials, specifications, and design criteria to ensure models and drawings meet customer and system requirements.
• Communicate with vendors to obtain detailed information about parts and applications and provide clear, complete technical information to the purchasing department.
• Define, plan, and coordinate fabrication and installation activities so that products and systems conform to engineering, design, and customer specifications.
• Collect, research, and interpret technical data to define production procedures and design required fixtures, jigs, and devices.
• Apply engineering and design principles, including the use of FEA simulations and engineering formulas, to develop robust, reliable mechanical solutions.
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail and synthesize complex or diverse information to generate creative, practical design solutions.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 1 year of professional experience in 3D modeling and drafting using SolidWorks.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks for 3D modeling, detailing, and creation of manufacturing drawings.
• Experience in mechanical design, including sheet metal components and structural or support elements.
• Knowledge of mechanical parts and assemblies, with experience in sheet metal design or light/heavy supports preferred.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes such as sheet metal forming, welding, machining, and assembly.
• Ability to apply GD&T standards to ensure clear, precise, and manufacturable drawings.
• Capability to use engineering tools such as FEA simulations and engineering formulas in design work.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to interpret and synthesize complex technical information.
• Proactive, solution-oriented mindset with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication skills and fluency in English, both written and verbal.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, ideally from a recognized engineering institution. Preference for graduates from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology.
• Experience with conveyor design and development, including mechanical layout and component integration.
• Hands-on experience designing fixtures, jigs, or special devices to support production and installation.
• Comfort working cross-functionally with production, purchasing, vendors, and engineering teams.
• Ability to define and document production procedures based on design and manufacturing requirements.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple design tasks and projects concurrently.

Work Environment
This position operates primarily in a fully remote work environment, but does require someone to be local or commutable from Rapid City, SD. Occasional local in-person meetings or site visits may be required to support fabrication, installation, or coordination activities. Work is highly computer-based, with extensive use of SolidWorks and other engineering tools for 3D modeling, drafting, and analysis. Collaboration occurs through digital communication platforms, and you will interact regularly with cross-functional teams to ensure designs are feasible, manufacturable, and aligned with project timelines and quality expectations.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Rapid City, SD.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $30.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully remote position.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jul 31, 2026.
About Actalent


Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.


The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.


If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.



San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.



Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.



Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.